Media Releases

AFPA SA welcomes State Government independent bushfire review

AUSTRALIAN Forest Products Association SA Branch Manager Leon Rademeyer today welcomed the State Government’s independent bushfire review as “a positive step towards community recovery and a solid base from which to prepare for the future”.

Mr Rademeyer said the devastating effects of the Kangaroo Island and Adelaide Hills fires warranted a closer look at the state’s preparedness and approach to these destructive events.

“The forest industries are imbedded in local communities across the state and a major contributor to regional Australia’s economic prosperity,” he said.

“Bushfires are a major threat to this prosperity and their negative effects are felt throughout the forest industries value chain.”

Mr Rademeyer welcomed the broad scope of the review and the tight timeframe.

“A holistic approach is important since there are many focus areas ranging from preparation and planning to response and recovery,” he said.

“In addition, the anticipated deadline of 30 June this year gives much needed urgency to the process.”

Mr Rademeyer said AFPA SA was ready to assist in the review process and was looking forward to working with State Government and other stakeholders in this regard.